Māori Wardens looking to reestablish themselves in Wellington
Māori Wardens look set to play a more active role in helping reduce crime in the city.
There were once 75 wardens in the city but now there are only two, with enforcements coming from Porirua and Hutt Valley when needed. Since their inception in 1860, Maori Wardens hold special legal powers, working alongside police, to help reduce harm.
This year marks the 160th anniversary of Māori Wardens, which its district commander, Gabriel Tupou, calls “a unique branch of Maori self-autonomy”. Wellington area liaison officer Suzanne Tamaki said the organisation now has a permanent office space in the central city, with the help of Wellington City Council, and is looking to increase patrols and recruit volunteers.
Helping to reestablish Māori Wardens' presence in the central city is one of a range of methods WCC are employing to reduce alcohol harm. An additional $80,000 in funding was also granted last week for Take 10, a volunteer group operating in the bar district, providing an array of services for people, including a time-out zone and phone charging.
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 2026 is almost here!
We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?
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10.4% Yes! New Year, New Me
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20.8% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
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68.7% Nah - not for me
Missing girl - from the Wellington Police page on Facebook
On the Wellington Police page: Have you seen Ella?
Police are seeking the public’s assistance to locate missing person Ella, who has not been seen since Saturday 27 December. Ella was last seen wearing grey pants, a pink shirt and slide-on slippers. Ella is believed to be in Johnsonville, or the wider Wellington City area. Police and Ella’s family have concerns for her wellbeing and would like to see her return safely. If you have seen Ella, or have any information on her whereabouts, please contact Police via 105 and reference the file number 251227/3635
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